Activity-induced asthma

Exercise and activity are important parts of a normal childhood. Exercise is also the most common trigger of persistent childhood asthma. The history for exercise-induced asthma (EIA) can be complicated by the lack of perception of significant airway obstruction during exercise. One must carefully identify those children with EIA from the group of children who report a low level of activity because of lack of interest or because they are "out of shape." The goal of treatment of EIA should be the attainment of normal activity level for children and adolescents. This article discusses the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment of EIA.